This series should be required reading in schools. We are WOEFULLY under-educated in Black history. It was fascinating to learn about all the effort and organization that went into the bus boycott and the lunch counter sit-in's.

Full disclosure: I ADORE Chima's SEVEN REALMS series. This new series takes place about twenty years after the end of that one.

I had to start this book twice because the death of a beloved character was too much for me at like, three chapters in. It was TOO MUCH, I tell you! BUT...I finally dove back in, courtesy of Audible, and I'm glad that I did. Although I don't feel quite as invested in these characters yet as I'd like to be, the blurb for its sequel, SHADOWCASTER, definitely has stirred my interest.

LuvvNation forever! <3

This book is a charming delight. Instead of Catholics vs. Protestants in Tudor England, we have Verities (muggles, basically) and Ethians, humans who can take the form of an animal. Jane Grey is a devoted bibliophile who could care less about marriage, let alone taking the throne, but she finds herself in the middle of Other People's Drama. Can she survive with her head still attached? Our three authors have rewritten history and given one of its casualties a story she deserves.

Lada is determined to rule Wallachia, Mehmed is determined to conquer Constantinople, and Radu finds himself caught up in his misplaced loyalty for a love that can never be.

Thus continues the story of Lada Dracul and her brother, Radu, sent to be raised at court with Mehmed, the future Sultan of the Ottoman Empire. Lada's determination is inspiring and a bit terrifying. This, along with Radu's loneliness and eagerness to please Mehmed are at the heart of this sequel. The supporting characters shine, especially in Radu's tale as he's sent off to Constantinople to spy for Mehmed. Even though they are leagues apart, these three remain entwined in each other's lives, and the conclusion to this saga will be anyone's guess!

Atmospheric and compelling, Now I Rise is a worthy sequel to And I Darken, and readers will find themselves continuing to be invested in the lives of the Dracul siblings.

Loving the new narrator for this series! Review to come.

Listening to Lindy read her book was an utter delight. Her pain was so relatable. Her bravery is so inspiring. Her sense of humor makes her feel like a familiar friend. So much love for this book!